Conduct Specified Testing of Gas Network Components and Assets
Overview
This standard is about testing gas network components and assets in accordance with industry standards and expectations.
It can apply to any type of fuel gas or combinations of fuel gas including, but not restricted to, natural gas, LPG, blended or 100% hydrogen.
It includes making sure the manner in which tests are conducted and recorded meets the standards of quality assurance set by the organisation, following safety requirements, interpreting test results, dealing with problems during testing or with results and recording and documenting test results.
This standard is for those responsible for managing or controlling operations during gas network activities.
Performance criteria
You must be able to:
- work safely in accordance with health and safety and environment regulations and legislation
- carry out site-specific risk assessments at appropriate times and apply the control measures identified in them
- select, check condition, use and store the appropriate PPE
- secure test sites from possible third-party interference and trespass
- use testing tools and equipment in accordance with work instructions and manufacturers specifications
- make sure that testing equipment is functioning in accordance with system operating requirements and parameters
- follow current drawings, plans and specifications for testing activities
- calculate specified test timings and levels
- anchor components and assets to withstand test pressures
- set up and carry out the tests in line with work instructions and within agreed timescales
- carry out all testing in compliance with approved industry and company procedures
- follow approved industry and company procedures to identify and solve problems that arise during testing
- monitor, interpret and review test results to establish that system performance is in accordance to specifications, performance parameters and codes of practice
- record test activity results and complete test record documents following reporting systems and using documentation in accordance with company procedures and requirements
Knowledge and Understanding
You need to know and understand:
1. The main responsibilities of the employer and employee for health and safety and environmental protection that are relevant to testing activities and how to comply with them
2. how and when to carry out and review risk assessments
3. the company reporting lines, roles, responsibilities and levels of authority
4. the identification and application of safe procedures for handling hazardous and non-hazardous materials
5. organisational accident recording and reporting procedures
6. the range and use of personal protective equipment for the work activity and procedures for checking PPE is fit for purpose including ear defenders
7. industry recognised methods for securing sites
8. statutory, organisational and emergency reporting procedures
9. the potential dangers and hazards from stored energy and low, medium, intermediate and high pressure systems
10. different pressure regimes and associated methods for testing and recording
11. how to calculate specified test timings and levels
12. the importance of adequate anchorage during testing procedures and how to achieve it
13. how to use the types of test equipment, including those used in pneumatic and hydraulic testing
14. the use of relevant pressure gauges, and the importance of using calibrated and certified equipment
15. specifications of system performance and codes of practice and how to interpret test results against them
16. the effect of atmospheric pressure and temperature variance on test results on components and assets
17. the potential consequences of test failure including the protection of personnel and the environment and how to remediate them